Going through a divorce can be one of the most difficult times in someone’s life. Divorces usually come with many life changes and the process requires one to go through the proper procedures to complete the paperwork and steps needed to reach the end where the divorce is finalized. When one divorces, the issue of residency is important. Alaska, like other states, has residency requirements that dictate where one must file for divorce.
Residency during divorce
When filing for divorce, the person initially submitting the paperwork, or their spouse should live in Alaska. Someone is a resident if they’re in the state when they file and intend to stay in the state after the divorce is completed. If someone doesn’t live in Alaska, but their spouse does live in the state, it’s legal to file for divorce even if the marriage happened in another state.
There are stipulations on how the court can handle certain matters related to child support and custody, especially if the children have not lived in the state for at least six months. For those serving in the military, living in the state for at least 30 days establishes residency. Members of the military can also file for divorce in the state in which they are stationed, the state their spouse resides in, or the state where they claim legal residency.
Filing for divorce
Once one determines that filing for divorce is the right decision, it’s time to get the paperwork started. Divorce is not an easy process, but getting everything in order and following the proper steps can help one conclude a divorce promptly. By working with a family law attorney, Alaskans who wish to divorce can better understand their rights and responsibilities in moving forward with ending their marriage.